The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R has taken the middleweight segment by storm, combining high-revving performance with cutting-edge technology in a compact supersport package. Built for riders who love the thrill of a lightweight, powerful motorcycle, the ZX-4R is set to redefine the 400cc category. With its inline-four engine and aggressive styling, it offers a taste of superbike performance in a more approachable package.
Price and Availability
The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R is competitively priced in the middleweight segment, offering incredible value for riders seeking a high-performance machine.
| Country | Expected Price (Local Currency) |
| India | ₹8,50,000 – ₹9,00,000 |
| USA | $9,699 – $10,000 |
| United Kingdom | £8,000 – £8,500 |
| Australia | AUD 14,000 – AUD 15,000 |
| Germany | €9,500 – €10,000 |
The ZX-4R is expected to be available globally at Kawasaki dealerships by early 2025, attracting riders who want a compact but powerful supersport.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Ninja ZX-4R is an inline-four engine, a rarity in the 400cc segment, which delivers exhilarating performance and an unmistakable exhaust note.
Key Engine Specs:
| Specification | Details |
| Engine Type | 399cc, liquid-cooled, inline-four |
| Max Power | ~80 PS @ 13,500 rpm (with RAM Air) |
| Max Torque | ~38 Nm @ 10,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed gearbox with assist and slipper clutch |
| Fuel System | Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) |
The engine is designed for high-revving thrills, with a redline of 15,000 rpm, making it one of the most exciting bikes in its class. With its top speed exceeding 190 km/h, the ZX-4R is built for those who crave adrenaline.
Design and Styling
The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R draws heavily from its bigger siblings in the Ninja family, featuring a design that’s both aggressive and aerodynamic.
Design Highlights:
- Sharp Fairing: Inspired by the ZX-10R, the fairing enhances airflow and gives the bike a menacing look.
- LED Lighting: Full LED headlights, taillights, and turn signals for better visibility and modern aesthetics.
- Sporty Tail Section: Compact and aggressive, emphasizing the bike’s supersport DNA.
- Color Options: Includes signature Kawasaki Lime Green/Ebony and Metallic Spark Black.
The ZX-4R’s design not only looks fast but also aids in reducing drag and improving stability at high speeds.
Chassis, Suspension, and Braking
Built on a lightweight yet rigid chassis, the ZX-4R offers sharp handling and precise control, making it perfect for both track days and spirited rides on twisty roads.
Chassis and Suspension:
| Feature | Details |
| Frame Type | High-tensile steel trellis frame |
| Front Suspension | Showa SFF-BP (Separate Function Fork – Big Piston) |
| Rear Suspension | Horizontal back-link monoshock |
Brakes:
| Feature | Details |
| Front Brakes | Dual 290mm discs with radial-mounted calipers |
| Rear Brake | Single 220mm disc |
| ABS | Dual-channel ABS with cornering functionality |
This suspension and braking setup ensures the ZX-4R delivers confidence-inspiring performance, whether carving corners or braking hard.
Technology and Features
Kawasaki has equipped the ZX-4R with advanced technology, making it one of the most feature-rich bikes in its segment.
Key Features:
- TFT Display: A full-color screen with smartphone connectivity via the Kawasaki Rideology app.
- Riding Modes: Sport, Road, Rain, and a customizable Rider mode to suit different conditions.
- Traction Control: Adjustable levels of traction control for improved stability.
- Quick Shifter: Enables clutchless upshifts and downshifts for seamless gear changes.
- RAM Air Intake: Boosts engine performance at higher speeds.
- LED Lighting: Modern lighting for enhanced visibility and aesthetics.
These features make the ZX-4R a tech-savvy supersport that’s ready to tackle any riding scenario.
Performance and Ride Dynamics
The Ninja ZX-4R is built for high-revving excitement and precise handling, making it an absolute joy to ride on both the track and the road.
Performance Highlights:
- Top Speed: Exceeding 190 km/h.
- Weight: Lightweight at around 189 kg, contributing to nimble handling.
- Riding Dynamics: The combination of a trellis frame, Showa suspension, and radial brakes ensures sharp handling and confidence at high speeds.
The bike feels planted and agile, allowing riders to push their limits with ease.
Fuel Efficiency and Range
The ZX-4R offers decent fuel efficiency for a high-revving inline-four engine, ensuring a good balance between performance and practicality.
| Feature | Details |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 15 liters |
| Mileage | ~20-22 km/l |
| Range (Full Tank) | ~300-330 km |
This makes it suitable for both track days and weekend rides.
Target Audience
The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R is perfect for:
- Track Enthusiasts: Riders who want a lightweight, high-performance bike for the racetrack.
- New Riders: Those looking to upgrade from entry-level bikes to something more powerful.
- Supersport Fans: Enthusiasts who want a compact bike with superbike DNA.
Competition
The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R faces competition from other bikes in the middleweight supersport segment, including:
- Yamaha YZF-R3: A more beginner-friendly option with a twin-cylinder engine.
- KTM RC 390: A single-cylinder bike with sharp handling and aggressive styling.
- Honda CBR500R: A parallel-twin offering a balance of performance and comfort.
Despite the competition, the ZX-4R stands out with its inline-four engine and advanced features.
Why Choose the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R?
- Unique Engine: The inline-four engine delivers a thrilling, high-revving experience.
- Cutting-Edge Features: Advanced technology like riding modes, quick shifter, and TFT display.
- Aggressive Styling: Inspired by Kawasaki’s flagship Ninja models.
- Versatile Performance: Suitable for both track and street riding.
- Kawasaki Legacy: Backed by a brand known for performance and reliability.
Conclusion
The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R is a game-changer in the 400cc category, offering riders a taste of superbike performance in a lightweight, compact package. With its high-revving inline-four engine, aggressive styling, and advanced features, it’s a bike that appeals to both new riders and seasoned enthusiasts.
Are you ready to feel the rush of the Ninja ZX-4R? This compact supersport is ready to deliver thrills like never before!
